A distinct trend is emerging in this year’s midterm elections: a handful of Democratic candidates for Congress are placing their Christian faith at the forefront of their campaigns. This marks a shift from the norm, as it is uncommon for Democrats to make religion a central pillar of their political messaging.
Among those running are at least six ordained clergy members, along with others currently studying to become ministers. The candidates include Frederick Haynes, a megachurch pastor in Dallas; Sarah Trone Garriott, a Methodist minister in Iowa; and James Talarico, a state representative and seminary student in Texas competing for a U.S. Senate seat. All are vying in competitive districts where religious identity remains a significant factor in public life.
Talarico recently addressed a congregation at Brentwood Baptist Church in Houston, describing himself as a fellow Christian rather than merely a candidate. He referenced his grandfather, a Baptist preacher, and urged voters to view current political turmoil through the lens of faith. “Sometimes we see the world most clearly through our tears,” Talarico told the audience. “If your heart is breaking as you watch what’s happening to our beloved country, it means you still have a heart.”
Despite this outreach, the strategy has drawn fierce opposition from Republicans. Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick labeled Talarico a “Pastor In Name Only” (PINO) and warned that campaigning against God would lead to hell. Talarico countered by arguing that the true blasphemy lies in policies that remove healthcare from the sick to fund tax cuts for the wealthy.
Data from the Pew Research Center indicates that Democrats are less religious on average than their Republican counterparts. A 2023-24 study found that only 28% of Democrats and Democratic-leaning adults consider religion very important in their lives. Nevertheless, Talarico has been vocal about his opposition to Christian nationalism, accusing the Trump administration of allowing the ideology to infiltrate the Department of Defense.
Meanwhile, Frederick Haynes, the pastor of Friendship-West Baptist Church in Dallas, launched his campaign after legislative redistricting eliminated a predominantly Black congressional district. Citing the Gospel of Luke, Haynes described his mission as bringing good news to the poor and freeing the captivated by systemic issues. His opponent, Everett Jackson, has attacked Haynes’ religious sincerity, claiming the pastor has politicized the gospel and misled his congregation.
In Iowa, state senator Sarah Trone Garriott, an ordained Lutheran pastor, has also integrated her ministry into her run for Congress. She recently preached on the Gospel of Matthew, using parables of the mustard seed and hidden treasure to illustrate how the Kingdom of Heaven challenges societal expectations. Garriott and her peers argue that their faith compels them to address issues such as healthcare, veterans’ affairs, immigration, and economic opportunity.
Voter reactions remain mixed. While some, like Madison Vega, appreciate that Talarico does not use Christianity as a weapon, others, such as Kristin Kott, feel religion should remain separate from government and politics. As these candidates navigate the intersection of pulpits and polling places, they aim to prove that democratic values and Christian faith can coexist in the legislative arena.
Separating church and state isn’t just a suggestion; it’s the Constitution. Let ministers stick to pulpits, please.
It’s refreshing to see candidates grounded in service rather than fear. The healthcare argument was compelling.